ThatGirlKnits&Rants

Springboard into Summer

2011-05-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

Now that I am off my soap box, it is back to the business at hand. With the warm weather on the horizon, and this yarn, the Berroco Weekend in my stash, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to knit up this cute little tank. Knit in one piece from the bottom up, it is knit in the round using a circular needle. I used a #24 inch circular. I did my staple crab stitch around the neck and armholes, to work as reinforcement, and hopefully help keep the garment in its original shape.

These days there are a lot of seasonal knit patterns and pattern books available for spring and summer. Gone are the days where we knitters are relegated to knitting just for the winter or the fall. Knitting is not just for sub-zeros temperatures anymore.

The Hymn of Risking Distinction

2011-03-29T07:28:00.000-07:00

I recently read The Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother. This book generated quite a bit of press, and created quite a bit of controversy. You Tube is inundated with interviews with this author. Magazines have done spreads of her smiling flanked by her husband, daughters and two dogs, looking every bit the happy family. There are too, photos featuring her standing grim faced, over her children as they practice their instrument. One daughter plays the piano, and the other plays the violin. I might add that both are accomplished musicians in their own right. About a couple of months ago, my nephew handed me an article, which featured some excerpts from Amy Chua's book, that was read and discussed in his class It seems that her book has sparked some serious debate and discussion regarding her parenting style, and her broad views on what is lacking in Western culture in terms of how Westerners rear their offspring, and the overall superiority of the "Chinese Mother" method of doing things, if you will. While my nephew didn't offer an opinion one way or the other, he seemed curious as to what my thoughts were. He being very familiar with my parenting style, having me as a second mother, in addition to observing my parenting of his cousin, my six year old daughter. I am sure too, he recalls with great affection, when I started him with piano lessons at the ripe age of 5.

Having read the article, and being somewhat bemused by the content, I went ahead, got the book, and gave it a read. Amy Chua's book, The Battle Hymn of the Tiger, reads like a memoir. She gives a little family history, regarding her parents, and her own childhood. But most of the book centers on the journey of parenting her children. She begins ceremoniously by telling us that her children were not allowed play-dates, sleepovers, or to participate in school productions, or to complain of these restrictions. They had to practice their instruments for at least two hours every day. No matter where they were, be it on vacations, the author would seek out a piano, and travel if necessary to where ever there was a piano, with her daughter in tow, so that she could practice. Her other daughter needless to say, went everywhere, including vacations with her violin. A grade less than an A is unacceptable. Oddly enough, on the face of it, I don't disagree. It is apparent that Ms. Chua holds both her daughters to a very high standard. She expects that they work at all times to their fullest potential. I certainly can't disagree with that. In fact, I can admire Ms. Chua's determination, in not allowing her daughters to work "half assed" or just enough to "get by" in any of their endeavors. And two hours of practice, every night? I don't think that is terribly excessive, for middle school aged children who are serious students of music. Play dates? Sleepovers? While I am certainly more liberal in my own parenting style in terms of play-dates, and sleepovers, I don't begrudge Ms. Chua's decision as a mother not to have her children engage in what she considers non essential extra curricular activities. She kept her daughters busy. Ms. Chua also remarked that she didn't let her children pick their own activities, or their instruments for that matter. She as their mother, did the picking and choosing on both their behalves. Admittedly, I don't find this egregious. I don't believe being "strict" is necessarily a bad thing. What was not clear for me however, is the "why". I don't see, or understand why Chinese Mother's or the like are superior. Is it because they are Math whizzes? Top of their classes? Get nothing but A's? Play an instrument? Is it because many get into Harvard, Princeton, Yale, or Brown? Oh, maybe NOT Brown, as Ms. Chua states in her book, having overheard a conversation between a Westerner and a deranged "Chinese Mother", who happened to be observing her daughter play at a Tennis Tournament, all the while telling the the Westerner, how "weak" her child is, and how, the sister, is "much better", "much stronger", "she goes to Harvard". The "weak" child who they were watching beat the ball back and forth, attends Brown. I can only hope that this "weak" child, was envisioning the head of this ignorant woman calling herself her mother, as she whacked the ball with her racket, away from her to the other side, and back again. Is it because the other child goes to Harvard? Is that what makes the other child "stronger"?Ms. Chua, while quick to say that this "parental favoritism is bad and poisonous", is in her next breath quick to defend this insanity of the "Chinese" by citing examples of how this kind of undermining and comparison of siblings goes on in other cultures, even the Bible. And this makes it OK, because . . . . .?

It is acknowledged, rather fleetingly the suicide rates, among these over achievers, parented by maniacs, by condemning that "I did not want her (referencing her daughter) to end up like those weird Asian automatons who feel so much pressure from their parents that they kill themselves after coming in second on the national civil service exam". Note that this acknowledgment comes disparaging, seemingly in direct contradiction to the 200+ pages. The author spoke of hovering over her daughters' during their practicing, where she readily admits often lead to routine yelling, and screaming matches. Harsh criticisms, of their playing ensued. But this wasn't simply in regards to practicing. It lent itself also, to a harsh critique of a birthday card from her four year old, handing it back with a "I reject this", along with a diatribe of all that she does as the child's mother, for her birthday " I spend half my salary on stupid sticker and eraser party favors that everyone just throws away". This to a four year old. I am sure that the author would use this opportunity to say that Chinese parents can get away with addressing their children in that manner. "Chinese mothers can say to their daughters, "Hey fatty—lose some weight." she writes. OK. But should this daughter grow up to marry a man who would habitually address her that way, would that be be OK? Perhaps it would. Perhaps it is "Chinese" culture to crudely address people who you supposedly love and care about. Ms. Chua's contempt for the way "Westerners" concern themselves with nonsense like self esteem is not lacking in subtlety. Every other page seems to ridicule, belittle and condemn these "Western parenting" anxieties. What was interesting is she gives no mention of how these children, or adults, reared by overly accommodating parents were ultimately impaired as a result. Her husband, is in fact the product of such a household. And as a Professor at Yale, I am going to go out on a limb here, but I surmise he survived. I found it fascinating that Ms. Chua seemed very concerned with having her daughter's compete. They both played, and won awards, and special acknowledgment for their musical achievements. The older daughter won the privilege to play at Carnegie Hall, and the younger child it was decided she should prepare, and try for Julliard's Pre-College Program. Why the constant competition? Is it to send the message that you have to be the best? Is it so she can say her daughters are the best? Does this make them better people? And how exactly, if this venture, wrought with behavior bordering on abuse a benefit in the long term? Or is this just another silly "Western" preoccupation? I suppose it will look good on a college application. Ms. Chua's uses the word "depth" frequently. From her description of choosing the right hobby for her child, to her expert analysis of what was lacking in a speech her daughter wrote for her father's 50th birthday celebration. Yet, what was was glaring to me was how hollow and devoid the author's sentiment. It rang superficial and exceedingly external. That however is not to say that she is a mean spirited, hollow shell of a human being, but to say that much of her book, from my point of view presented her that way. Ultimately however, I will say that I do feel that much of her methods, she describes in her book, for dealing, and addressing discord with her daughters' bordered on abusive. Yelling and hollering hurtful and derogatory things and depriving food and drink, borders on abuse. When it is habitual, then it is abuse, whether it is an Ivy League educated parent, going off about practicing piano, or a parent with a 10th grade education, going off about staining the carpet.

Nonetheless, having said all that, I must make the admission that I found my myself seething during the course of this fascinating, albeit frustrating read. Without a doubt, this book triggered a lot of my own personal issues surrounding the way I was parented, and as a result, I can't hold the author entirely responsible for my visceral reaction to her book. Although I can appreciate Ms. Chua's quest for imparting the importance of hard work and the benefit of discipline, I found her "voice" to be beguiling, misguided, self serving, and morosely lacking in compassion. Her broad generalizations regarding "Western" parenting got on my nerves too, as she offered nothing to substantiate her point of view that resonated with me in any way. Her book, and it's tone overall seemed to mock "Western" parenting, in a way where initially I thought for a moment it was a parody. I don't doubt for a second that this author wants nothing but her daughter's to succeed, and to succeed for themselves. I believe sincerely that she believes she has their best interest at heart. While she stated that she herself never thought in terms of "happiness" or being "happy", it is my hope that she begins to consider the importance of being happy, and the necessity of emotional health, in which joy is an important component, for her own sake, and for the benefit of her family. Ms. Chua may think that happiness is perhaps a silly Westerner concept, but at the end of the day, is it better to be the janitor who is happy, and finds joy in the most mundane of activities? Or to be a depressed, Harvard Medical School Graduate who speaks mandarin, plays virtuoso piano, and finds joy in nothing?

It's a WRAP

2011-02-17T20:49:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Sister Helene asked if I would make a shawl. A shawl, preferably triangle in shape. I was only too happy to comply, for a couple of reasons. Number one, it is what I do. And secondly, because I simply adore her. My friend happens to be a nun and the head of the religious education department at my parish. In fact, when she approached me, a little over seven years ago, and asked if I would teach a CCD class, I had no choice. For a couple of reasons. One, because I adore her, and well secondly, it was an opportunity to be involved with my parish in a meaningful way. In any case, now that there is a prayer shawl ministry, it is kind of a no brainer that I would, because I could contribute in this way. In my stash, there were 5 skeins of the Berroco's Comfort Chunky that I used to crochet this shawl, which is a house pattern of
Stitch Therapy called the Spider Shawl. How apropos that that the yarn I used has the word “comfort” in its description. It is my hope that it will offer hours of cozy comfort to the recipient.

Two-timer Twice

2011-02-08T16:21:00.000-08:00

Hooray! Just finished these gloves for my nephew Chris. The tingly sensation continues, as I successfully completed another project using the Magic Loop technique, and made a beautiful pair of gloves. Fortunately I like my nephew enough to hand over these hand crafted beauties, which he will probably lose in a matter of seconds. This confirms that I can not only Magic Loop, but that the process no longer freaks me out. The story of these gloves is simply a labor of love. It would have to be. Gloves are laborious. The finishing tedious. But the nice thing about making gloves, or these gloves rather, is get a skein of yarn with good yardage, and you are good to go. I got this pattern off a website for Vintage Knit pattern site. Am feeling good about my new skill set of not only Magic Looping, two at a time, but being able to translate the pattern (usually written for dpn use, one at a time.) The pattern itself was confusing, and for the most part, I don't consider myself particularly skilled at reversing patterns, however, this was yet another opportunity to hone a useful skill set. Making the pair at the same time proved useful in reversing this pattern, because I had access to both gloves, and the visual was invaluable. Made the gloves using alpaca, which feels great, and should prove to be nice and warm.

NoNsENse Knits

2011-02-01T20:26:00.001-08:00

originally uploaded by ThatGirlKnits.

This is my latest project using Magic Loop. Clearly I am on a Magic Loop kick at the moment. These gloves are for my nephew. I am hoping he will like them. While I know that for the most part, he prefers black, and no play with texture, these gloves seemed "masculine" enough, that I thought I would give it a whirl. This pattern comes from an online site of vintage patterns, and truth be told, I found the pattern to be somewhat confusing. But that could be because I've had to translate it so I could do it two at a time, magic loop style. In any case, my new found skill has me thinking about making a pair of legwarmers. I've also been entertaining the idea of knitting socks, now that I can do it two at a time. The thing is, who would I make socks for? No one in my house, including me are good with socks. They always get lost, and I end up wearing more mismatched socks then I care to admit. But one thing I could do is make a pair of navy socks that my daughter can wear to school. My knitting has to be functional. It has to make sense. I have in my travels come across a number of books, leaflets, and online patterns of things that I wouldn't make because it seems pretty useless. One thing I've seen a number of patterns on that I find silly are wrist warmers. What the hell is a wrist warmer, and do wrists get cold, and need special warming? I never found myself thinking "My wrists are freezing. Boy could I use a pair of wrist-warmers. Why not then just make gloves, or fingerless gloves. At least gloves, even fingerless gloves are practical. You have access to your fingers to grab that set of keys buried into the abyss that is your purse. And by your purse I mean my purse. Even fingerless gloves are handy. Your hands are warm, and you can have your fingers free to play with the apps on your stupid Iphone. And what's with the knitted thing you put on a cup when it is too hot. I don't even remember what that's call. I think it's called a "cozy". I guess it so you don't burn yourself. But then you can usually get the cardboard sleeve to put the cup in, drink your coffee, tea or whatever hot beverage, and throw it out together. Why would I knit that? I confess, I think that is pretty useless too. I see that getting lost, and thrown out by accident. There are also a number of cute patterns for knitted toys. Thats nice. If you have a glass case to keep it in so you can look at it. Could a knitted toy really withstand a crazy toddler, that spends their free time getting filthy? Or a teething baby who will just chew the shit out of said knitted toy? Could you really throw a knitted toy into the washing machine? I stick to knitted hats, and sweaters and such for babies, little kids. There are all kinds of knitted knick knacks. I have no use for knick knacks, so I am certainly not going to make them. And what's up with this pattern of booze bottles? What the hell is that, and if you can't get even a buzz, what is the point? This pattern describes them as "pillows". But it isn't big enough to use as a pillow. If anything, dogs and cats will love these things as chew toys, and who is going to want to touch that when it's been in a Rottweiler chops? Well that's just me. Some of this stuff is nonsense.

Two at a time ACCOMPLISHED

2011-01-22T12:58:00.000-08:00

Cafe au Lait Mitts

It's official. I'm magic looping. Having just finished my first magic loop project, I feel accomplished. I feel masterful. I feel a tingly sensation all over. There is great satisfaction with making a pair of mittens, socks or sleeves two at a time, I must say. It was for that reason alone that I felt compelled to learn and hone this skill. The thing about Magic Loop is, it can be daunting. It probably slowed me up, and didn't help with sanity maintenance that I was working an 8 row- lace pattern repeat, coupled with a brand new technique. Doing lace fucks with me in the best of circumstances, so I probably should have known better. Be that as it may, I did it, and have manged to do so without hurting myself or anyone else.

The concept itself is not that complicated. Essentially you are just knitting as the pattern dictates. If you can count, you can pretty much translate any pattern calling for dpn's to Magic Loop. The cast on can be confusing, and that is simply because of the tendency to over think which will complicate the process. Not to mention that it is kind of messy. Yarn seems to be coming out of everywhere, and those first few rounds will convince you that you have no idea what you are doing. Trying to figure out where everything is supposed to be, in addition to keeping from twisting the rounds, lest you have to rip out, and start over, is enough to make the most well adjusted, grounded, and emotionally stable individual to completely short circuit. As knitters, we are all too familiar with the term "frogging" otherwise translated "ripping it out", can have some frustrating connotations, just based on the way the stitches are set up in this technique. I will be the first one to admit that this can be a colossal nightmare. The benefits though, do offer quite the pay off. You get the pair, at the same time. It is easy to carry with you. I for one, had this project, when I wasn't working on it, stuffed haphazardly in my bag. Those stitches would have never survived on dpn's. I have come to see that Magic Loop is a good technique to know.

What I would recommend to make learning this technique easier is to NOT do it two at a time the first time in. Better you do one of the pair for your introduction. Learning how to manipulate the stitches on a long circular needle is vital. By the time you have completed the second of the pair, you will likely feel a profound level of comfort with the scooting, and pulling process that goes on. When getting ready to advance to working the pair at the same time, I would suggest, a simple sock, mitt, or better yet, a simple legwarmer pattern. This way the focus is on the new technique, and not a complicated stitch pattern. What I found helpful, was labeling each needle/side that you are working. I would recommend using locking stitch markers of different colors, and placing it on the end of each cast on edge.

Assorted colors of scrap yarn is fine too. The idea is to help you keep track of what you are working on. This will assist in keeping your work straight in your head, so that when yarn is coming from every direction (and it will be), this will help reorient you. The one thing that my knitting/teacher buddy Kris Percival said that was extremely helpful in making sense of the execution of this technique, was the reminder that the working yarn is always in the back. And finally, make sure you have taken your medication.

TWO-TIMER

2011-01-11T08:31:00.000-08:00

I've decided to give this Magic Loop thing some serious attention. I've decided that this is yet another technique that requires my mastery. And why? Well, because it is practical. I have put off making mittens, gloves and legwarmers (which seem to have made a fashion comeback) and other such items, until said time that I have mastered Magic Loop. Magic Looping is using one very long circular needle, as opposed to double pointed needles, which is presently the way I do it. The benefit of Magic loop is traveling is much easier, and I would suspect you'd worry less then you would transporting work on dpn's. But most importantly, with Magic loop, you get to do two at a time. So if you are going to say make mittens, gloves, sleeves, or socks, you can do the pair as opposed to dpn's which you generally do one at a time. Long ago, in my attempt to make a pair of socks, I knit one sock. I still have that one sock. Never got around to making the other. Magic loop would prevent such a travesty from happening in the future. Then I put off jumping on the Magic Loop band wagon, because, well, I actually am quite comfortable working with dpns. And then I further distanced myself from the whole Magic Loop experience, having convinced myself that this technique is best served by sock knitters. I am not a sock knitter. As you probably guessed, because I made just one useless sock. One lonely sock. And it wasn't for anyone in particular. I just wanted to prove to myself that I could make socks if I wanted too. Or in my case, a sock. But I have come to see the error of my ways. Why Magic Loop, really is Magic! To think that the next time I make a sweater, I could just do it Magic Loop style, as opposed to the one lonely sleeve at a time. I could bang out mittens, legwarmers two at a time. And so I plan to sit in on my knitting compadres Magic Loop Class. Wish me luck!

Grandma got run over by a reindeer . . .you wish?

2010-12-08T20:35:00.000-08:00

So this morning, I go online to check email write email, and do other innocuous online activities when I come across this article I Bad Mouthed My Mother in Law, and she found it. This struck a chord with me, not because, and let me emphasize this point, not because I have any mother in law issues, but simply because this piece addressed in general about the fall out of writing about difficult relationships. While I have written nothing extensively about my mother in law per se, there was a blog entry of mine, that she found, and was "hurt" by, not so much the content, but by the last line of the blog, which referenced in the most generic way crazy in laws. Complicated relationships are nothing new. And with the holiday season in full swing now, crazy familial relationships for many, are ever present. We all have relationships with people who are and can be difficult for a variety of reasons. Reasons that range from the lack of filter from the inception of thought, to how it comes out of ones mouth, whether it be yours or "difficult" person in question to perhaps an old grudge. What is apparent is that seeing this stuff in print, or hearing it from a friend or family member, or on YouTube like the comic who, if you will recall a few months ago, was slapped with a law suit by her mother and sister in-law for some of the unflattering things mentioned about her mother in law relationship in one of her comedic sets, is very uncomfortable for all parties involved. Whether it be the writer, comic, or the person on the receiving end. The one common denominator of both these stories is more than the mother in law component. If for a moment you consider what incites these rants, you will note, that it is often in response to things said to or about the offended party. It is the rare person that will call someone out for something crazy that was said to them. For example if someone says or infers that your house is a wreck, more often than not the person expresses their annoyance by going into a diatribe of the the inappropriateness of the remark in a way that is clearly argumentative, or just keep the fact that they are irritated to themselves and seethe silently. Perhaps the time has come to be more vocal, more open about what pisses you off, in a way that educates as opposed to challenge. The key is to address the matter in a way the isn't confrontational. This is where filtering the inception of the first thought "Are you crazy? Did you just say that to me? That is completely idiotic!" to "Can you take just a moment to see how what you said can be hurtful or insulting?" This of course can go one of two ways. The person addressed can immediately spot the error of their ways and apologize profusely, or it will trigger a full blown argument. If you remain calm, the idea is that the flow and exchange of thoughts and ideas, can bring about discussion, then resolution and off set any bad feelings. Or at least the potential to off set any bad feelings. I can think back to many relationships in general where something was said, or done, where I would think "Are you out of your mind?", but then said nothing, and wrote this idiot off. Let us be honest shall we, that most of this takes place within our own family dynamic. Only after my own familial craziness and my reaction to it, did it dawn on me that there is an art to this whole communication, mediation, and resolution thing. When I think back to things that have pissed me off, I can honestly say that for the most part my handling of it was less than graceful, often leaving me silently seething, or openly hostile. I have come to see the importance of letting a person know they are a pain in the ass, in the most loving way of course. At the very least you have the satisfaction of having made your feelings, your reactions known in an honest way. I conclude that if a person knows they will likely be called on most every stupid thing they say to you, they are more likely to think twice before opening their mouth. And the key on both sides is to THINK before speaking.

Oh BOY!

2010-11-18T19:10:00.000-08:00

One would think, as did I, that it is much easier to knit cute things for girls. Or rather, there are more things in terms of what is out there, more things for girls. Indeed the great thing about knitting for a baby girl, or a little girl for that matter is that there are plenty of options. Sweaters, dresses, boleros, vests, ponchos to name a few. While you can see a boy in a knitted sweater or vest, you wouldn't see, or if you were going to knit something for a little boy, it wouldn't likely be a dress, bolero, or a poncho. I love knitting for boys. While I concede, and perhaps not everyone will agree with me, that there are more options for little girls, the things that one can knit for a little boy can be equally, if not in some cases, more stunning. When I set out to knit for a baby girl, I tend to look for a pattern that is rich in frill, and a maybe a little bit of lace. Nothing bordering on gaudy mind you, but with little girls, and particularly baby girls, you can get away with just about anything, and it will be the only time in that little girls life that she will be able to get away with any color, or frill combination. For boys, there are more things to consider. For example, you have to make something that Dad will let the boy wear in public. Even a hint of frill can have your beautiful hand made knit buried in the bottom of a drawer forever, if not in a box in one of the grandparents attic. While not all Dads are sensitive in respect what baby boy wears on his outings, some are. Trust me. So when looking for something to knit for a boy, I tend to focus more on color. A nice rich color that stands out, and has a unique quality of its own. I find that lately I am have been drawn to different hues of green. To keep the knitting interesting, I choose something that will utilize a skill to keep it interesting, for example fair isle. When a friend of mine gave birth to a set of adorable boy and girl twins, I crafted a sweater, in one piece, using the neck down technique, in his sweater. One of my favorite go to patterns for baby boys is a pattern by Debbie Bliss called oddly enough called Florence. The "Florence" makes me think - best dressed overalls, which is a perfect staple in a baby boy's wardrobe. Love the seed stitch in the body, but think maybe next time, I'll try it using a cable down the middle.

"Where's my hood?" she asks.

2010-10-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

With my daughter's school year underway, and the chill in the air beckoning for winter, I whipped up this little number with a bulky yarn using size 10.5 circular needles. Just in the nick of time too, as one day when I dropped my kid off at school, she wanted to know why she didn't have a hood. Indeed, the coat she wore that day had no hood. Luckily I put a hood on the poncho. This piece was made in one piece, starting with the hood. I laid the cable so that when I grafted the top of the hood together, the cable would frame the face. Around, and around, adding increases for the body, I kept the cable going down the center. The cast off I used was the picot bind-off, which gives the poncho it's flare, and funky edge.

School Hat&Scarf Code

2010-09-17T08:44:00.001-07:00

School Hat&Scarf Set, originally uploaded by ThatGirlKnits.

My daughter’s school has a strict dress code, so much so, that even their outerwear, including coat, hat, and scarf must be in either Navy, or Black. I did not even look to see if a cute hat and scarf in navy, or black even existed. I figure that I would be hard pressed to find those colors for a little girl, as most things I see in my travels are pink, or covered in Hannah Montana or annoying loud prints. Instead, It gives me an excuse, (not that I need one) to create plush beautiful outerwear in Navy or Black. As a result, I get to smack my designing chops, and create from my own personal vision. Last year, pending her return to school, I decided that I can contribute to her winter gear. I spotted this gorgeous set of twisted cable like stitches, in a vintage pattern book from the sixties, and used that stitch to create a knitted hat, scarf and a pair of mittens. I managed to find a vibrant Ella Rae Extra Fine Heathers yarn in Navy blue, and set out to get my creative juices flowing. In looks, feel, and texture, this is one of my favorite yarns to knit.

This year, I opted out of making another set, as this set is still perfectly good, and I've considered myself lucky that they haven't been lost. So why test fate? Instead, I think an adorable poncho is the way to go this year.

Fantasy Laced&Reality

2010-08-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

Lace Bonnet

Front

Back

I have a confession to make. I haven't been knitting furiously. In fact I have been knitting quite leisurely. I managed to convince myself that since the baby in question was not due until September, that I had plenty of time. I could finish the sweater, by the end of August. But then the baby had other plans, and decided that she was ready to come now. And she did. And I was not finished. So, I shifted my ass to high gear, got in some power knitting, and got it done. Now this adorable little sweater beckoned for something more. So I decided on a cute little lace bonnet as a sweet final touch. I had this fantasy that I would not only make a sweater, but a bonnet, a small pair of mittens, and even a little blanket to present at the baby shower last month. But who was I kidding? Hence the word fantasy. And given how anal I am about the finishing, there was no way that I was going to have all that done, even if I had until September. Nonetheless, I managed to finish the sweater/bolero and cute lace bonnet before she grows out of it, with room to spare.

This was a relatively straight forward knit. The body as I stated in a previous post is done in one piece, from the neck down, being sure to separate for the sleeves which is then done separately on double point needles. The collar is then done, by picking up stitches and doing a 2X2 rib. I added a few of my own personal touches to make the bolero less generic and tailored to fit a baby, as the pattern is written for older children.

The Bonnet, which comes from a pattern book for babies and toddlers, is just too cute for words, was suggested by Maxcine. I think that it rounds out this ensemble quite perfectly if I do say so myself. I am satisfied that baby Sophie will be not only warm and toasty, but styling too. Welcome to the world little girl!

Have you heard? Fruit Loops has more fiber and Red Dye #40

2010-07-25T16:40:00.000-07:00

One fall day, after picking up my daughter from school, I began talking with a lovely woman, who I have become friendly with about diet. Not the "I'm trying to lose 10lbs" kind of diet, but the "what foods do you feed your kid" kind of diet. Now I am not the parent that won't let my kid indulge in a candy treat from time to time, but what she said opened my eyes. Gia had just began Pre-K, and I had my concerns as my kid is, well, to put it nicely . . . busy. I wondered if she would be able to tolerate a full day of school, barely 4 and not try to swing from the lighting fixtures. In my quest for sanity maintenance, I happened to voice my trepidations, and my friend remarked that I should try to avoid food dyes. Particularly, red dye #40. Huh? What the hell is that? Well it turns out that red dyes and a host of other food coloring dyes have been shown to exacerbate hyperactivity, and symptoms in children with existing behavioral disorders, such as ADD, and ADHD. My daughter by nature is active, and as a result every second of her waking moment is chalk filled with activities in which to channel her liveliness. Still, I got to thinking that I should at the very least start to pay attention to my friends very wise sage advice, and try to if not eliminate, limit her intake of food dyes which of course is in everything. The first thing to go was the Trix yogurt that her father would buy for her. She like many kids loved all the pretty colors, and got into picking out which color palate of said yogurt she will bring for snack. So I began by calling it radioactive yogurt, and encouraged the more, while not as colorful, healthy organic choice.

Having taught CCD for several years now, I have encountered a number of children that were diagnosed ADD and/or ADHD. Even in my comparatively brief encounter with these children, having had a glimpse into that very challenging world, I now wonder, how many of their parents were even aware of this little detail regarding this seemingly innocuous food coloring. And just how much of a difference would it have made in terms of this insidious disorder? Granted, some children may exhibit more or less of a reaction, if any at all to ingesting these tasty neon colored treats, but the more I thought about it, the more I began to think, that neon colored foods and drinks can't be good. So in light of that, I figured, why not spread the word? There is even a Blog devoted to it.

In Pursuit of Completion

2010-07-14T08:15:00.000-07:00

I am going to state for public record that I am back from sabbatical, and will forsake all other projects, new and old to finish work on one very, very important undertaking that involves yarn. The yarn of choice is the Lana Grossa Chiara, in a shiny rose. I spent a great deal of time giving the "what shall I make" a whole lot of thought, and finally settled on a cute little bolero sweater. There are a few things I have in mind for this undertaking. Having chosen a finer yarn, then what was suggested in the pattern I am going to have to adjust a few things. Needle size for one. Having spent a great deal of time procrastinating, I swatched the yarn using a few different needle sizes, finally settling on the size 8 suggested in the pattern. The garment will be smaller nonetheless, fitting a baby, as opposed to a toddler. One of my dearest friends is expecting her first child, this screams for knitting by default. But the thing is, for my dearest friend, it has to be pretty fucking awesome. Unlike many knitted sweaters, this sweater in constructed from the neck down. You begin with the cast on, and then work back and forth in stockinette, increasing as you go, as indicated by the instructions on the pattern. You will then divide for the sleeves, which will be placed on a piece of scrap yarn while you work the back of the sweater to the desired length. That is where I am now. You see, I am not one of those people who knit, or crochet things for just anyone. I am not that person, that will knit for the 3rd cousin of the assistant of a friend of mine who is expecting a baby. I do however know of many knitters that relish the notion of hand knits for everyone, and even knit Christmas gifts. I generally don't. Not because I don't want to, but to put it simply, I have major difficulty with time constraints. This is obvious with the many unfinished projects that are angrily eyeing me in bags or baskets in several parts of my home. Be that as it may, I will have to set the gears to power knitting, to accomplish the completion of said cute little hand knit sweater, before the baby in question makes her debut.

hOw to eArn bRagginG rights

2010-07-05T13:23:00.000-07:00

We have all experienced that parent. The one that must tell you how extraordinary and brilliant their kid is at whatever. You know the type. Five minutes after meeting you are held verbal hostage while they go on and on about their kid and that kid's life story, and how smart, or talented they are. Perhaps you nod politely, or look sideways and roll your eyes. Maybe you are compelled to share the genius that is your offspring. Maybe you are genuinely interested. First, there is that parent whose kid is very verbal, and you must be made aware of it, in case you didn't notice. Or that child that is so well coordinated that they have to take their dance classes with the older children. True story. This was our first meeting, and this came up within seconds of our introduction. Not only that, but she mentioned the same thing to me twice, having either forgot she told me, or forgot who I was. I even overheard her telling someone else. I think that was my favorite. I think secretly all parents want to hear from their kid's teacher that they the parent of a freakin' prodigy. I don't mind hearing all about juniors great accomplishment, but to be quite frank, 99.9% of the time, I just see an ordinary kid, just like mine. And I have determined that there is nothing wrong with being an ordinary kid. I consider it my responsibility to help my kid find her thing, and I don't feel the urge to share every mundane detail with everyone whom I say "nice to meet you". We all know of at least one person, if not our self, that was skipped a grade in school, or a kid that maybe has an aptitude for sports, or art, but does it mean you should have a spot on the TODAY SHOW? So I submit to you, what if there were a rule that in order for you to earn bragging rights, and I mean to complete strangers or very casual acquaintances, the "greatness" has to be mind blowing, say "my six year old has been taking piano for just six months and can play Chopin Minute Waltz, by memory, why yes in fact during some technical difficulties at an elementary school show, he was asked to play a tune while they get it together backstage. Or "my baby is stil in diapers, but he can do a mean samba". Wonder which class he takes?

sEntiMENTAL BrEAKdOWn

2010-06-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

I have been on a knitting hiatus. That is my own. Still busy though, with my teaching endeavours, and spreading the gospel of knitting and crochet techniques to those in need. I myself, have been busy with end of year crap. End of year school picnics, end of year recitals, birthdays, graduations, award ceremonies. It has been never ending. But now that things have been winding down, and I have been catching my breath, my mood has shifted from breathless anticipation, to down right melancholia. If someone would have told me 10 years ago, that I would be this weepy, sentimental mess of a creature that I have morphed into, I would have enjoyed hours, upon hours of uproarious laughter. But here I am. Weepy, and longing for the good old days. The trigger was my nephew's graduation from 8th grade, which took place this past Friday. It didn't dawn on me, during the course of my preparation of finding something to wear other than my Elmo sweatshirt, that this occasion would have such an emotional impact. During the ceremony, I was busy, running around, catching every second on camera, to preserve that moment in time forever, while keeping a close eye on my six year old, as we waded through the mob scene. But after it was over, and we were leaving, I realized, Holy Shit, he is not a little boy any more.

It all began began November 17, 1996 with his birth. I was the first to see him as he made his grand entrance into the world. Our close proximity gave me access to love him to itty bitty pieces, and if you will, hone my mothering skills, of which I had zero. My sister completing her medical degree could rest assured that my beloved nephew was nurtured and cared for in the most profound way. In short, he and I got to spend a lot of quality time together. And so, I would be the lucky recipient of his company, much less his little drawings, hand made cards, and school pictures. I still remember with vivid clarity his first little show with his nursery class, where they all sang (mind you he didn't sing) Baby Beluga. I still remember getting all teary eyed looking at the little 3 year old looking out at the audience as if to say "WTF"? And till this day, his Uncle, my husband will remind him that he still owes him a clear rendition of that song (Baby Beluga). I remember taking him to see Monsters Inc, and A Good Boy, which by the way had me blubbering and nauseated as I was pregnant with my daughter and already a hormonal disaster. I recall telling him about the birth of his little cousin and his reaction of disappointment that it wasn't a boy. Living close by, made for lots of sleepovers at my house, being awaken at some ungodly hour of the morning to do an art project he received as a gift, and after having "snoozed" him for an hour, finally getting out of my bed to help make and paint candle holders. And the holidays too took on special meaning. From the time he was 4 years old, it was just understood, that he would stay with us to help in the preparation with the Thanksgiving meal. I remembering him once becoming emotional that this cute little turkey was dinner. We would look for excuses to cook and bake together, once making from scratch, cupcakes, including the frosting, for his Kindergarten class for his 5th birthday. And Christmas' past, my sister would bring the gifts to my house to wrap, and hide, and like Santa, I would sneak in after he was asleep to put them under the tree. I wistfully remember that anytime he would hear me on the other side of the door, that door would swing open, and it was clear he was excitedly awaiting my arrival. But kids get older, and they and things change.

Now when he thinks he hears me on the other side of the door - he doesn't move. And when I appear, he looks at me as if to say "Can I help you?" And for my birthday, when I used to get hand made cards, or that birthstone ring he made his Mom buy for me (that I of course still have), I now get a text message. Happy Birthday. I was the fun Aunt, but I am now officially that crazy Aunt that smothers him with hugs, kisses, and a lot of nosey questions. Whose that? What's that? You know you can't bring home some chicken head girl to your mother, who texted you? Who gave you that? I really think you should reconsider, and do your Confirmation, What are you doing on the Internet? You know they some nasty people out there. I know you are not interested in going to those schools, but look at them anyway. Gotta girlfriend? Gotta boyfriend? Did your mother talk to you about the birds and the bees? And on and on it goes. So for my nieces and nephews who I didn't have the privilege of close proximity to smother them with affection, they should know Chris might say I am like a second mother, and oh Lord, do you really want that? TeeHeeHee.

I am glad for having had the honor of watching him grow, and help rear him. And trust me. It ain't over yet. Not by a long shot. Now - what can I knit for you Chris?

The Genesis of Entrelac

2010-05-23T18:12:00.000-07:00

The first time I became even remotely interested in entrelac was when I laid eyes on this beautiful pattern called The Entrelac Shawl in one of Debbie Bliss' books. It was gorgeous as it was unique. Beautifully textured rectangles with a simple cable down the middle. I knew I had to make that blanket. Entrelac was a foreign concept to me at this time, in terms of execution. Yes, I was familiar with the term, but in so far as squares alternating ugly colors that seem to have no business together, and so I never felt the least bit inspired to learn that technique. But this was different. There was no freakish use of color to hurt my eyes, just a good looking piece of fabric. And so I set out to begin work on this masterpiece. Then I got stuck. Once I got through the base triangles, the pattern began to read crazy. Each word got tangled in my head, leaving me in an utter state of bewilderment, angst and confusion. I put that shit away, but this piece just kept nagging at me to put an end to this madness. The call to completion got louder, and louder, and so I picked it up again. I found someone who successfully completed this blanket, and she not only allowed me to pick her brain, she got the light bulb in my head to go off, and helped me decode this language of entrelac. I finished the blanket and unexpectedly a whole world was opened up to me. My desire to master this technique was to finish this blanket, but then I discovered that I actually liked the fabric that entrelac created. I have since made other things, and have been given the opportunity to share the creative wealth of knowledge of the wonderful world of Entrelac at Stitch Therapy where I now help others decode this rather simple skill.

KEEPThoseCrazyPeopleAwayFromMyBABY!

2010-05-18T06:37:00.000-07:00

Illustration by Daniel Armstrong

stringthink.wordpress.com

A dear, dear friend of mine is expecting her first child. One day, I asked how she was feeling. Pretty typical question you would ask an expectant mother. But her answer, while unexpected, resonated with me in the most personal way. She spoke of this strong reaction she has been having, and described it as the "Keep those crazy people away from my baby" feeling. I had to break the news that this feeling doesn't go away. I still have that feeling and my daughter is almost 6. In fact, as she has gotten older, that feeling has only intensified. I expect that will continue to be the case for the rest of my life, and maybe even after. Now I don't consider myself a great mother. In fact, I don't even know that I am a good mother. I probably let my kid eat too much candy, watch way too much TV, and let her stay up way too late, but I don't think you have to be a great mother to protect your child from craziness. But a decent mother, yes. Even the most domesticated of animals are known to go ape shit when something or someone threatens the environment of their young. Since we are limited in what insanity we can shield our kids from, it is even more important that I as parent make a conscious effort to keep the madness to a minimum within the context of my immediate family life. Now I waited until I was at the age, whereas my egg upon fertilization needed a cane to get to my uterus for implantation to have my kid, as opposed to those prime childbearing years of yore. In fact, I made a decision in my early adulthood not to have children, as I couldn't trust myself not to take leave of my senses and was not certain that the crazy person my baby would need protecting from was me. Having had front row seats to the freak show that was my childhood, I knew well enough that I was not going to bring, much less create an innocent victim to bear witness to the manifestations of my lunacy. My husband, who had been my boyfriend several years prior to our marriage was on board with this notion of no children, as his ego was not vested in populating the earth. Now my husband's reasons were different than mine. He came from a solid, caring, and loving family, which is evident by the husband and father he is today, and ultimately our choice to have children came after careful and thoughtful deliberation. Then the next 39 weeks was spent going "What the fuck did we do?". Not dealing with a full deck myself, I knew that for me to bring a child into this world into an existing precarious situation, say a partner who also isn't dealing with a full deck would be by default starting behind the eight ball. So I got to know myself. I knew that I could not trust myself not to repeat the legacy of lunacy, and I knew that there was much work to be done to repair my battered and abused psyche. Mucho therapy. I was then able to figure out that I needed a partner that was smarter than I, sensible, reasonable, and the picture of emotional health. And this was what I sought for a life partner. Then one day, I happen to notice I didn't involuntarily seize with horror when people asked us about children in our future. "This is a new feeling" I thought to myself. Instead the nausea and vomiting came after I became pregnant. Let's face it, the man or woman you are with, providing everything is in working order, has the potential to be the father or mother of your child, and if you don't have your shit together, and your partner doesn't, forget college fund, and start a therapy fund. As time passed, I began to trust myself a little more. My self esteem in tact, and the journey to keep it that way was was well under way. I had finally had a better handle on things, and the time had come for me to answer the call of the wild, and we were blessed with a great kid. There is not a decision I make without first considering how it will impact my child. That "Keep those crazy people away from my baby" are one of the few voices in my head that I pay attention to, and acknowledge in addition as a primal instinct even if that crazy person includes me. And so, I would like to take this opportunity to wish my dear long time friend the very best of luck in keeping those crazy people away from her baby, as it is a life long, and very worthy endeavor. As I recently stated in a Facebook post, I have learned that if you buy tickets to the circus, don't be shocked to see clowns. I've seen many, and a lot of kids are afraid of clowns, so forget the tickets, and put the money in their college fund.

uNhAppY mOtHer-iN-LaW daZe

2010-05-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

http://cbc.ca/arts/theatre/story/2010/05/05/in-law-jokes-lawsuit.html

I had never heard of Sundra Croonquist. But then it has been quite some time since I've made the rounds at the comedy clubs. Then one day while driving my kid to school last week, and listening for the allergy forecast, it was brought to my attention by the 1010 WINS news people that comedian Sundra Croonquist had a suit against her that was filed by her In-Laws. The suit was recently dropped, protecting her First Amendment Right to free speech. It seems her In-Laws were offended (read horrified) by her shtick. Intrigued by the commotion in this family, I located her In-Law set on YOUTUBE for my viewing pleasure.

I had to admit, that was pretty hardcore. And while I found some of the material bemusing, I was mostly YIKES. She may or may not like her In-Laws, but one thing is for certain, Sundra Croonquist is a comic whether you think she is funny or not. Comics poke fun. Most make jokes about intimate experiences that are relevant in their lives and common overall, most notably at the expense of others. Hers while not unheard of is a unique enough situation in that she is a black woman married to a Jewish man, but the common universal thread is the annoying mother in law. Based on her stand up, she has the stereotypical Jewish mother in law. I think we can all agree that in law, particularly mother in law jokes are pretty common, and I am going to make a wager that her act is somewhat exaggerated. Sundra, being a woman of color, probably did hear some outrageous things from her husbands family who may have been a little surprised by who he bought home for dinner, in this case, Passover and who he chose as his life's partner. For the average comedian, these situations can provide much fodder for mischievous comic antics. This can be annoying, especially to those on the receiving end. The truth is, all comedians are about the joke. But Sundra's in-laws not amused, took the liberty of filing suit against her. Because of that action, I now have heard of Sundra Croonquist.

One of my last blog entries where I was recalling the days of yore of how I learned to crochet, I was trying to remember how I learned to knit, in addition to noting the benefits of such hobbies. The last line of the entry read something to the effect of "something to think about the next time your insufferable in-laws are over for the holidays." Needless to say that during a conversation my husband had with his mother, he happened to mention my blog. She had in fact had read my blog, and took what I considered a broad, rather benign remark very personally. I hadn't cited anything personal pertaining to our relationship. I didn't even say "mother in law", nor had I recounted any particular episode of in-law drama, say specific to her. I just made what I considered an innocuous comment, a suggestion if you will, for those who have to deal with crazy in-laws or for that matter any insane family member one has to tolerate during familial gatherings. Interestingly though, that last line for her was the point of the story. Now I don't expect a law suit, and I am gratefully low profile enough that no one would really give a shit what I wrote, but for the record, I was not making a statement about my own in-law relationship. It was a suggestion in the form of a joke.

In-law issues, in-law jokes, just like sex and intimate relationships have always been a ripe topic for writers, and comedians alike. The sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond drew heavily on the in-law relationship between daughter in law and mother in law. In fact Everybody Loves Raymond would have 9 seasons. The 1999 move The Best Man was the story of a writer whose book caused a whole lot of hoopla for what he cited was simply "fictitious accounts of experiences" he had gone through. I conclude that everything from books to movies to plays, and blogs are based on something if even a germ of an idea or experience. It may not however mean what you think it means. Sometimes it is all very generic. And while I am not worried or concerned about any weird tensions at my next holiday soiree, boy oh boy, would I love to be a fly on the wall at the next Passover Sedar at Croonquist's house.

Ode to LIZZIE

2010-05-05T19:09:00.000-07:00

I am currently obsessed. Obsessed with Lizzie. You see, Lizzie is a shrug. And I don't mean the "shrug" you you give your husband when he asks you about the 20 missing from his wallet. No, I mean a garment. A sweater of sorts. An original house pattern from Stitch Therapy, and might I say one of the best shrug patterns I have ever had the experience to knit. It is a well constructed, beautifully shaped piece of clothing. If I could, I would make a hundred of them at once, and just give them out to everyone I know and like. I would make one of every color, just in case. This pattern has been around not long after the inception of Stitch Therapy in 2004. I, however didn't experience the glory until just last year, when I decided I should make something for myself. So last year I finally made myself the shrug that I loved and admired for quite sometime. I had long since bought the yarn, and had it in my stash for about a year and a half or more before I finally knit it up. I have since worn the daylights out Lizzie, who is holding her own.

And so when the annual Mother/Daughter Brunch (a yearly function hosted by my daughter's school) was on the horizon, it was that time to think about suitable and appropriate gear for cute girl child. Lo and behold, a beautiful sea green dress, with a cream mesh flower lace overlay caught my eye. It was perfect. But it was missing something. The quaint braided spaghetti strap dress begged for a delightful elegant vintage like wrap to up the anti in sheer elegance. My almost 6 year old will not tolerate a wrap. No, that would end up under the front seat of our car with footprints all over it, and my daughter staring up at me with a look of confusion when I ask where it is, but a shrug? I decided that was the way to go. A sleek garment that functions as a half sweater, providing warmth and cover for bare shoulders, while accenting, and even accessorizing beautiful dress for cute girl child. I began to look around for a nice relatively simple and quick shrug pattern. Unfortunately, or fortunately I was unable to find anything that I loved. And if I was going to take the time to make it, I have to love it. It needed to look handmade, not homemade, or anything resembling something that can show up on a fugly website. When it dawned on me that I was looking for something that looked and was shaped like the Lizzie, I decided I should make the Lizzie for my daughter. I knew there had to be a way. Lizzie was written for the adult female, ranging in sizes extra small, to extra large along with several yarn suggestions that are in line with the use of a 8, 9 or 10 needle. I ended up using a finer yarn, than the pattern suggested, and went down to a size 6 needle. And Voila, a shrug for Gia. I wish I had some complicated mathematical formula, along with some insane illustrations of thoughtful sketches that are frighting and intimidating to share as to how I came up with the sizing for small girl child, but I don't. Truth be told, I just winged it.

SeRiOusLy uNhiDeous

2010-04-10T19:21:00.000-07:00

I was asked to crochet this hat, The Slouchy Beret, from The Crochet Dudes aka. Drew Emborsky's adult hat pattern booklet, called " In All Caps", for the store Stitch Therapy. A new yarn came in, and making the hat will provide a nice showcase for the hat and the new yarn. The materials I used were the Berroco's Weekend yarn, which is 75% Acryllic, and 25% peruvian cotton, using a size G Hook.

I enjoy crochet. It is interesting to me that many people don't share the passion for both knitting and crochet. Most people I know either knit or crochet, but not many do both. Or at least both with the same enthusiasm. I may knit more, but that is simply because crochet has an abundance of hideous patterns. That is not to say that knitting doesn't run the gamete of its share of ugly ass patterns, but it seems that crochet has knitting beat in that department. But then every so often I will come across something crochet wise that strikes my fancy, and this little booklet of crochet adult hats was one of those things. As of late though, it seems that while crochet is still under represented there are more and more beautiful patterns in the crochet fabric than ever before. This Crochet Dude guy has a pattern booklet due to come out from Leisure Arts, called Crochet It. Love It. Wear It! (Leisure Arts #5058) which features some lovely designs for women. I've already pre-ordered my copy. And while crochet I felt had been limited to afghans, and scarfs and a few hats, it is nice to see pretty sweaters, and even a cute dress that I would crochet to wear if I didn't have the body of a baby rhino. Be that as it may, I think this hat is gorgeous, and am thinking I might make one for myself as I am freaking adorable in it. Oddly enough It isn't something that I would have thought that I would make for myself, but did I mention that I look so darn cute, that the hat almost demands that it be on my head? In any case this hat will be on display like a beautiful museum artifact at Stitch Therapy.

Ok, that may be a little much, but that is where it will be. I hope that it will inspire crocheters to want to make the hat. While the hat may look complicated, it is quite simple. Anyone who knows how to chain, single, and double crochet can do this hat with relative ease. And if you can read stitch instructions, this pattern reads clear, which is good, as I often need things to read as if I am a 3 year old. And not a bright 3 year old either. There have been some preliminary discussions about possibly running a workshop, where I will essentially guide one through step by step execution of this gorgeous hat. It really is fun to make, and the result quite impressive. People will be amazed and think you are talented. How great is that?

FoUnd iN tRanSLatiOn

2010-03-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

Knitting is like reading code. There are thousands upon thousands of abbreviations that become a cellular part of your psyche. You find that as time goes on, it takes hardly any processing at all. You just look, see K2tog tbl, and you know just what has to be done. You also speak in a code that is not apart of the non knitters frame of reference. Soon, it dawns on you that they have no idea what the hell you are talking about. This became apparent to me when I happened to mention to someone that I recently finished an afghan for my nephew, which elicited this quick and thoughtful response, "What's an afghan?"

I had to stop and ask myself "Just what the hell is an afghan"?.

When I googled "Afghan" this came up:

Afghan may refer to:

* Someone or something related to Afghanistan
* Pashtun people, the largest ethnic group in Afghanistan and second largest ethnic group in Pakistan; see also Afghan (name)

o Pashto language (Afghan language), the native language of the Pashtuns

Further down the Wikipedia list, there was mention that "Afgahn" may refer to a knitted or crochet blanket, or throw. I even learned that the Afghan, used to describe a throw, or a throw-blanket did indeed originate from Afghanistan. The original Afghan served the same function, was made from disposible materials and meant to be discarded, or thrown away after use. But from now on, I think I will just tell my non-knitting, non-crocheting friends that I made a blanket.

Last summer I made myself a shrug, from an original pattern called the Lizzie from Stitch Therapy where I teach and select yarns for hoarding. Again, my friends not familiar with the terminology used by craft fiends such as myself, needed further clarification. "What's a shrug?" I was asked. Once again, I had to ponder "Just what the hell is a shrug?" So I once again went to my computer, and got this definition for "shrug".

: to raise or draw in the shoulders especially to express aloofness, indifference, or uncertainty

I knew that. But now a days the first thing that comes to my mind, isn't the first thing that comes to the mind of the lay person. So from now on, I think I will say I made myself a little bolero. How many people, I wonder, have I told I made an Afghan, walked away wondering "How the hell did she do that? I didn't know you could knit that." I imagine that for as many people that will ask "What's that?", there are many, many more who won't. And when I told friends, that I was busy working on a shrug, they must have walked away, shaking their head in confusion and well . . .

just shrugged.

the QuEsT fOr tOtAL rEcALL

2010-03-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

I had come down with some type of throat thing, (strep maybe?) and for the last several days I and my knitting were out of commission. Too exhausted to properly obsess, I've put down my needles for a brief hiatus to recover. Having no energy to physically navigate and properly fixate over the gusset in this glove I've been working on, I've found myself really thinking about why I knit (did I mention obsessively), and where it all began. I have no recollection how I learned to knit in my youth. I made a scarf once, and aside from the sheer basics was completely useless. Crocheting was more my thing, and for years I pretended not to know how I learned to do that. What I did know was that I was in desperate need of an innocuous hobby that didn't involve a rifle, or a set of bows and arrows, so when I found out that this woman my father was fucking at the time knew how to crochet, I had her teach me. I was about 8 at the time, and for some bizarre reason that I can't recall, I was sitting in her home, and before long with hook in hand, I learned crochet basics. It started with a granny square that just kept getting bigger and bigger like the absurdity that was my life, and this woman was on hand to help me out when I got stuck. I spent enough time in her home, that I would become proficient enough at crochet to make blankets, scarfs and hats. And so, from time to time, over the years, I did as much. That very first blanket I made went to one of my nieces when they were born. Or at least I hope it did. And thus spawned the poster child for the expression, "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade."

I didn't start to knit really until my adulthood. Shortly after I got married, I went into a yarn store that had recently opened in my neighborhood to ask a question about a crochet project. The store's owner happen to ask me if I knew how to knit. I responded that I did. At least somewhat. She handed me a skein of yarn, a pair of knitting needles, and asked me to demonstrate how I do it. Using the backward loop cast-on, I proceeded with my pathetic attempt. After completing a row with the finesse of a gorilla in pointe shoes, she said she could show me a better way. It was at this time time I would learn the long tail cast-on, and how to knit continental. What I demonstrated was the English method, which produces the same result, and how I figure most knitters knit. I on the other hand fell madly in love with continental knitting, and went home that night to feverishly practice my new found skill. With that, my second completed knitting project, a basket weave stitch scarf would go to my very worthy husband. But the mystery of how I learned to make my very first scarf, and do what I did during my feeble presentation to the woman at the yarn store remains as elusive as was a passing grade in math. Perhaps it will come to me during an EMDR session. I still crochet and very often use this skill to embellish my knits. I consider myself lucky to know how to do both crafts.

The beauty of such crafts is the flexibility it provides. You can take it with you, and you can do it pretty much anywhere. There are a whole host of different techniques to learn and perfect, so while it can be repetitive, it is never boring. For me it provides a great escape during those times when I am insanity's hostage. There is nothing like having a project handy to help endure your family's madness. Something to think about the next time you find yourself with your insufferable in laws for the holidays.

KNITTING 101-Words of Wisdom

2010-03-17T07:57:00.001-07:00

Let me be the first to say, that knitting is not for sissies. That's right, you heard it here first. It is not for sissies, the faint of heart, or for those looking to relax. What you just read are the opening remarks of my Beginning Knitting Class. It is important to know this going in. If you picture yourself sitting comfortably, luxuriating in a big cushy chair, knitting, smiling, while periodically sipping on a glass of vino, while working on a beautiful bonnet to go with those matching booties, you should know that the voice in your head is that of Rod Sterling narrator of the Twilight Zone. If that fantasy, minus the "comfortably luxuriating and smiling", has you screaming a stream of expletives, at 3am, drinking whiskey instead of vino, surrounded by frightened and bewildered family members, fingers covered in scabs and callouses, blood everywhere because you stabbed yourself repeatedly in the eye with your knitting needle with or without the work on it, on purpose, then you my friend are either a serious knitter, or ready to learn. My students look on with horror as I explain that the first thing they need to do is get comfortable with the idea of making a lot of mistakes and being open to ripping shit out. Jaws drop to the ground when I recount stories of having riped out a whole knitted sweater to do it over, or having worked on an intricate color pattern, to find that I made a mistake 12 rounds below, only to have to rip it back to rectify the error. And not just beginners either. This holds true for even the most seasoned yarn craftsmen or craftswomen. While knitting may not be by default the most relaxing hobby, it certainly will take your mind off of things. That is except your knitting. If what you are seeking is a relaxing hobby, collect stamps or coca cola memorabilia. But if you need a way to channel that OCD that is ruining your marriage, knitting could be for you. I often hear "I don't have the patience for that", but will hear in the next breath that they have been dating that asshole for 5 years. So knitting can be for you. Hell, it can be for everyone. I tell my students that knitting is 90% desire, 10% technique. It comes down to how bad you want it. What I teach is the 10%. Having been teaching for a while now, I give the following advice to anyone interested in learning to knit. 1)Practice... 2)Practice some more 3)Does it feel awkward? Like you are knitting with your feet with your hands cuffed behind your back, while blindfolded? Many report that feeling and I am here to tell you that it is not uncommon. 4)Don't let that feeling frighten you. Keep knitting. Soon it will feel like you are knitting with your hands, and before you know it, it will look like it too. 4)Trust that the more you do it, the easier it gets. Not knitting, just life. 5)You will find that you are enjoying yourself.

The Slow Go

2009-11-02T07:18:00.000-08:00

It is almost my nephew's 13th birthday. I began working on an afghan for him at the end of August, thinking that this would give me plenty of time to complete this warm cozy colorful throw. I proceeded to pick out this beautiful yarn. An interesting afghan pattern, called Rambeling Rows. Armed and ready, with my tools, and the use of a knitting technique called mitered squares, I was ready to go. Then tomorrow happened. Then many, many, many tomorrows happened. And here we are in November with no end in sight. OK. So I took a break to knit a couple of hats. Then I became distracted by my new "crackberry", which I have been downright addicted to since getting this phone, having come to terms that my previous phone, being held together by a rubber band was due to crap out on me at any moment. Then Halloween. And Halloween madness. The question now is, can I get this thing done in 15 days? I am going to say . . .

I have no idea. Perhaps I should start thinking about this as a Christmas gift.